Nadal serves up an ominous warning: I play my best tennis on grass

Rafael Nadal has ominously declared that he plays his best tennis on grass.

The Spaniard claimed his fourth French Open title last week on the clay of Roland Garros and is yet to win a major away from Paris.

Despite being considered a clay court specialist Nadal hit back at claims made by former Wimbledon champion Michael Stich that he is not capable of winning at SW19 this year.

Better on grass: Nadal serves up a warning

He said: “I know the grass is a difficult surface for me but I probably play my best tennis on this surface. It is important to play well on every surface and Wimbledon is a very important tournament. I am still young and have to continue to improve.

“I have four Grand Slams already and I want to have more, if it’s possible, on a different surface.”

Nadal pointed to last year’s final against world No1 Roger Federer, who edged a five-set classic, as proof he can adapt to the quicker surface.

“My best memory of playing on grass is at the same time the worst - the final last year at Wimbledon,” said Nadal, who faces Japan’s Kei Nishikori at Queen’s today.

“I played an unbelievable match but at the same time I lost a good chance to win my favourite tournament.”